Nairobi, Kenya – Popular content creator Cashmeer Sayyid has stirred controversy after her widely publicised “wedding” turned out to be a promotional launch for a training institute.

The influencer, who had built up excitement online with elaborate bridal teasers, shocked guests and followers when the grand event revealed no groom – only a marketing pitch.

Many attendees and online followers expressed disappointment, accusing Sayyid of using wedding hype to draw attention to her business venture.

Winnie Njenga vented her frustration, saying:

“I’m really disappointed. Hii ni kutumia watu. Sasa hii dress yangu ya KSh 60k nitapeleka wapi?”

Prince Mwiti compared the deception to a bait-and-switch, adding:

“Ungetuambia tu ukweli bado tungekuja. Kwa nini uinvite watu as if ni Rolls Royce na kufika tunapata ni Vitz. You should be arrested.”

Actress Trisha Khalid echoed the sentiment:

“Sasa hizi nguo tutazipeleka wapi? She didn’t have to fool people. Her genuine friends would have shown up still.”

The incident has sparked debate over influencer marketing tactics in Kenya, with critics calling for more transparency to protect guests and audiences from feeling exploited.

Some social media users defended Sayyid, arguing that the stunt successfully captured attention – which may have been her primary goal.

You can read more on influencer controversies in Kenya from Nation Africa and similar incidents previously reported on Sauce.co.ke.